Cornwall is known for being a tourist hotspot in summer. Its stunning beaches and coastal views attract thousands of visitors each year. However, the county also comes alive around Christmas time, as everybody embraces the festivities. Today we thought we’d share some of our top dog friendly things to do in Cornwall this Christmas!
Lost Gardens of Heligan Christmas Fair, Friday 6th to Sunday 8th December, Mevagissey
The Lost Gardens of Heligan’s Christmas Fair is truly magical. Makers from across Cornwall will be exhibiting their creations at the Christmas Fair. There’s even a free park and ride from Mevagissey, a beautiful Cornish harbour town. The Christmas lights will be switched on in the evening on Saturday; a great way to end the day’s festivities.
Dogs are welcome throughout the Lost Gardens of Heligan but must be kept on lead. Please pick up your dog’s mess and dispose of it properly in one of the many bins across the site.
Mousehole Christmas Lights, Saturday 14th December, Penzance
Mousehole Christmas lights were started in 1963, when Joan Gillchrest strung coloured bulbs along the quays to brighten the village. It has since developed into a dazzling display featuring sea serpents, whales and boats. The Christmas lights switch on is one of Cornwall’s best-loved festive events, accompanied by a carol service and other festivities.
The Christmas lights are switched on between 5pm and 11pm from 15th December to 4th January, with the exception of 19th December. The lights are dimmed on this date each year to commemorate the Penlee Lifeboat disaster of 1981, which tragically took the lives of all 8 of Mousehole’s crew.
Port Eliot Christmas Festival, Friday 13th to Saturday 14th December, Saltash
Port Eliot Christmas Festival is another opportunity to enjoy Cornwall’s diverse artisanry. Over 30 exhibitors will be attending the event, which is both family and dog friendly. Workshops and demonstrations will be held throughout the weekend, including truffle hunting, gift wrapping, ballet and festive cookery.
The festival will be accompanied with live performances from the Culdrose Millitary Choir and Rock Choir, along with plenty of street food, mulled wine and mince pies!
Falmouth’s Festive Weekend, Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th December, Falmouth
Falmouth is famed for its impressive calendar. The town hosts all sorts of festivals and events throughout the year, including the International Sea Shanty Festival, the Tall Ships Regatta and its Oyster Festival. This year the town will also be hosting its first ever Festive Weekend, jam packed with family friendly festivities throughout the town.
There will be plenty to see and do, including taking a trip on the snow train, ice skating on Events Square, a Victorian carousel on The Moor and festive food and drinks served across the town. There will be plenty of music and street performances to enjoy and Falmouth is renowned for being dog incredibly dog friendly.
Boxing Day Swim, Thursday 26th December, St. Ives
Boxing Day swims are a seaside tradition across the UK, Cornwall being no exception! Everyone is welcome to brave a dip in the sea and it’s all in the name of raising money for local charities. St. Ives’ Boxing Day swim takes place on Porthminster Beach and swimmers are welcome to wear wetsuits, fancy dress or if you’re crazy enough, just swimmers!
If you and your dog would prefer to stay dry this Boxing Day, you can watch from the sand. The beach café will be serving hot chocolates and bacon butties, making it the perfect opportunity to spice up your Boxing Day walk.
What are your favourite dog-friendly things to do in Cornwall this Christmas? Let us know in the comments! Be sure to check the range of dog-friendly cottages in Cornwall and dog-friendly accommodation all over the UK.
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